SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- From the moment the San Francisco 49ers' 2025 season ended, it was fair to wonder whether quarterback Mac Jones would remain with the team in 2026.
Jones started eight games in place of injured starter Brock Purdy, leading the Niners to a 5-3 record and keeping them afloat in the NFC playoff chase. It was a win-win scenario that also allowed Jones to get his career headed in the right direction. At their end-of-season meeting, the Niners and Jones had honest discussions about his future and any potential trades to a team in need of a starting signal-caller. Jones was told that while a deal was possible, it would take a substantial offer to pry him away from the Bay Area.
During draft weekend, coach Kyle Shanahan hinted that it would have taken at least a first-round pick for the Niners to sacrifice their quarterback depth.